An examination of how young adults manage verbal disclosure of their tattoo(s)

Abstract

Using 25 interviews of young adults and Communication Privacy Management Theory (CPM) as a theoretical framework, this study examines what motivates young adults to verbally disclose or not disclose their tattoos to others. Findings suggest young adults were aware of the threat of tattoo stigma and carefully created and managed privacy rules by assessing whether disclosing their tattoos was risky or rewarding. Participants verbally revealed their tattoo(s) when they perceived disclosing helped them bond with others, establish their identities, and empower themselves. Conversely, participants concealed their tattoo(s) when they perceived disclosing as harmful for their professional identity or potentially resulting in judgment from family and friends. This study sheds light on young adults’ privacy management and underscores the value of tattoos and the need to destigmatize them.